Hydrological technicians gather and record data on water levels, flow, and
quality.
They check readings of instruments that record rates of flow of water in
streams and rivers. They record changing water levels of ponds, streams, and
reservoir to chart changes in the water table, which is the depth in the
ground where the soil becomes totally saturated with water. They examine
water quality by physical inspection. They look for color and amount of
sediment present through chemical analysis. They record all these things to
monitor long-term changes.
Other jobs hydrological technicians perform include studying precipitation,
evaporation, run off, infiltration, and the capillarity of water. In all of
these categories they study types, distribution, time, and area. They also
record data on floods, population, and the chemical and physical properties of
water. Sometimes they must figure out dimensions of a flood control damn.
They may figure the safe and economical capacity of a reservoir. Also, they
may figure correct spacing for irrigation to prevent erosion.
Hydrological technicians must be knowledgeable about Hydrology, which is the
study of movement and distribution of water on the earth. They must take
courses in high school such as chemistry, physics, and math at least through
geometry, and have language skills developed sufficiently to enable them to
read technical manuals, and to write analytical reports on their findings.
Usually some post high school prep classes are necessary. Types of classes
include geology, physics, and laboratory practice. A hydrological technician
earns roughly 25,000 dollars per year.
Hydrological technology is only one of many jobs that this nation's river
system provides for. Hydrological technicians play an important role in
protecting rivers and putting them to use.